Respiratory complications in Cerebral Palsy: physiopathological consequences and clinical manifestations

Abstract

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a condition that can occur at any time during brain development. Although its etiology is multifactorial, CP is usually linked to brain injury or infections during prenatal, perinatal, neonatal or early childhood period. The disability associated with CP varies from mild to severe, and may include involuntary movements, poor coordination, maintaining balance problems and the difficulty of performing voluntary movements. Although this condition (brain impairment) does not directly cause pulmonary complications, neuromuscular dysfunctions do so. In fact, aspiration and ineffective coughing could interfere with normal airway clearance, impair respiratory function, and worsen lung damage, resulting in increased mucus production and reduced secretions elimination. This consequent alteration of the pulmonary defense system increases the susceptibility to serious, progressive lung diseases. Physiotherapy is an essential component in the management of respiratory complications associated with severe CP. For optimal results, however, it is important customized treatment for every patient. This mini non-ystematic review would highlight the possible complications and the possible interventions for reduce them.